The team has run a small pilot study using existing software to provide a proof of concept that is indeed possible to climb inside a virtual molecule. To keep up with the rapid growing technology, a dedicated software developer and a motion graphic designer are part of the Auckland team to connect local and international expertise so that the Auckland molecules are professionally rendered to maximise the impact as a research, teaching and outreach tool.

Application

The team will create awareness on campus of the technology, so that researchers can turn their molecules into virtual reality experiences and stroll around them. In the first instance, the team will use proteins in the Lab from Professor Gerrard and her collaborators as case studies, moving onto the more complex case of Dr O’Sullivan’s complex DNA structures in whole chromosomes. We envisage that many other projects will be nucleated by the programmer, researchers and PhD students who will be excited to turn their 3D data into a virtual reality experience.

Collaboration

Professor Gerrard was introduced to the Vive VR technology at the Googleplex – an international SciFoo Conference – and was able to keep updates of other institutions that are rapid adopters of this technology. For example, Professor Tom Davies, Director of the ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology (https://www.cbns.org.au/) and Professor Paul Bonnington from CAVE-2 Centre (http://www.monash.edu/mivp) are some of the more advanced players in the field who have agreed to share their expertise as part of this programmer. More locally, the team have connected with the VR Garage and the Media Design School, where Steve Dorner, Associate Dean (Programme Leader of Bachelor of Art and Design ) is interested in assisting with scaling the technology for large undergraduate audiences (perhaps through augmented reality). This would provide an opportunity to showcase Auckland molecular research at the centre of the virtual reality experience, and tailor it to attract students and researchers to the University of Auckland.

The role of CeR

CeR has an excellent facilities and expertise in visulisation and analytic area. The Centre has been working with researchers across the University including Auckland Bioengineering Institute (ABI), Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Population Health, Mathematics, Marine Science, New Zealand Institute for Pacific Research names but a few, to build visual spatial maps, generate animated model, 3D modelling tool etc.

The benefits to the University

The project is linked to the University strategic priorities and provide the following benefits:

• Attracting talented undergraduates and postgraduates throughout NZ and internationally.
• Enhancing the University’s ability to attract externally funded research and in particular, offshore funding.
• Enhancing the student experience, including the experience of international students.
• Enhancing learning and teaching.
• Enhancing the University’s international relationships and standing.